I came to Lüderitz fresh out of university, wanting more than just another backpacking trip — somewhere to stay for a while and really get stuck in. I had no idea I'd end up staying on!
As a performing arts intern at LBS, I was given real ownership from the start. I took on the secondary school Instagram, helped with Glee Club, set up a chess knockout tournament, put on a verbatim play, and did loads of photography and video editing for the school. Whatever you want to try, they fully support you. From teaching robotics to surfing to sign language.
Living in the boarding house was a highlight. Getting close with the kids, helping with activities, and just being part of their everyday lives felt really special. The house also had a gorgeous balcony overlooking the sea — I spent a lot of time up there reading, tanning, and doing yoga!
Outside of school, I helped with the sailing club (having never sailed before), learnt to row for the first time, and went offshore with Kelp Blue — a local kelp cultivation and harvesting company — to see the farm, what they actually do out there, and lots of dolphins. I also went on a road trip with two other interns and a local friend, all of whom I'm still in touch with. We went sandboarding on dunes, did a self-drive safari, went hiking, tried traditional Namibian food, went mountain biking, and loads more.
Lüderitz is a really special place, and you can make of it whatever you want. If you're more adventurous – weekend road trips, mountain biking, long runs along the peninsula, camping, hiking. Or if you prefer a slower pace – reading your book with a coffee while watching the sea on a day that is, hopefully, not too windy!
I loved it so much I asked to come back, and here I am six months later, working in outreach for the school and doing social media for Kelp Blue. I couldn't recommend these internships enough!